Getting people to attend your event is one thing but getting them to hype it for you without spending extra on ads? That’s the real jackpot!

In Nigeria, word of mouth is gold. From a tweet about a concert in Lagos to Instagram stories from a wedding in Abuja, people trust what they see from friends more than any billboard or radio jingle. That’s why smart event organisers don’t just market to their audience, they make their audience part of the marketing team.

If you want your next show, concert, wedding, or party to trend beyond your own efforts, here’s how to turn your guests into loyal promoters.

1. Give Them an Experience Worth Talking About

Let’s be honest, nobody talks about boring events. If your show doesn’t have vibes, gist, or at least something “Instagrammable,” people won’t be motivated to post or share.

Add surprise elements: An unannounced celebrity performance, a hilarious skit, or a fire dance crew.

Serve crowd-favourite food and drinks: In Naija, good jollof rice and chilled drinks can win hearts faster than any PR stunt.

Create Instagram-worthy setups: Think creative backdrops, eye-catching décor, and branded props. People love to show off; give them something to snap.

The more memorable your event is, the more your guests will naturally promote it.

2. Make Sharing Easy for Them

Nigerians love to flex on social media, so make your event content-friendly.

Use a catchy event hashtag: Something short, fun, and easy to remember (e.g., #OwambenaVibes2025).

Set up a photo booth or media wall: A branded backdrop where people can take high-quality pictures.

Offer free Wi-Fi: It encourages live posting and keeps your event trending in real-time.

Create Reels and TikTok challenges: Give people short, fun trends they can easily join.

The easier you make it to share, the faster your event will spread online.

3. Involve Guests in the Build-Up

The hype starts before the event day. Make your audience feel included so they have a personal reason to talk about it.

Run social media countdowns or challenges.

Let them vote for DJs, MCs, or even menu options.

Feature fan shoutouts on your event’s Instagram or Twitter page.

When people feel like they helped shape the event, they become emotionally invested and they’ll push it like it’s theirs.

4. Reward Social Sharing

In Naija, everybody loves a freebie. Use that to your advantage.

Offer discounts or VIP upgrades to guests who bring friends.

Run giveaways for those who post about your event and tag your official account.

Give souvenirs or branded merch to attendees who share your hashtag.

Little rewards go a long way in making people promote your event with energy.

5. Keep the Energy Alive After the Event

Your marketing doesn’t end when the lights go off. The post-event period is where loyal fans are made.

Share photo albums and highlight reels on your event page.

Tag attendees in posts so they can repost and spread the excitement.

Ask for reviews and testimonials to build credibility for your next show.

If they had a great time, they’ll talk about it for weeks and that’s free promotion for your next edition.

Conclusion

In Nigeria, people sell events better than any flyer or sponsored ad. Give your attendees a memorable experience, make sharing easy, and reward them for hyping you. The next time you host a concert, party, or wedding, don’t just see guests as ticket buyers, see them as partners in promotion.

For more tips and tools to promote your events in Nigeria, visit www.shows.ng, your one-stop platform for planning, promoting, and managing events like a pro.